Fenerbahce big man Asik out long term

Fenerbahce Ulker big man Omer Asik will miss much of the upcoming season after suffering a knee injury. Asik has undergone surgery to repair ligament damage after hurting himself while training with the Turkish national team. The 22-year-old was an instant success after joining Fener midway through last season. He established a Top 16 record with 19 blocks in six games and went on to finish the season ranked fourth in the Euroleague Basketball Rising Star Award voting and fifth in the Best Defender Award voting. He compiled 7.8 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.1 blocks over 18 minutes in 15 games last season. Asik hopes to return to action in about six months, which would allow him to take part in the Top 16.